"Uxua, Trancoso, Brazil: This beloved barefoot-cool pioneer stands out not only for its sustainable approach—reclaimed building materials, zero-waste policy, trash bags from recycled paper—but for investing in local communities. Founders Wilbert Das and Bob Shevlin launched a literacy program for the entire staff from the get-go, and thanks to the life coaching and financial planning the resort offers, 35 employees have bought land in the past six years. Das's new U-2020 initiative seeks to enroll 20 staffers (out of 85) in a university program by the end of this year. Doubles from $290; uxua.com or skylark.com"